Polar Express train rides by state.
The Polar Express train ride is a holiday train based on the picture book. For 2026, 32 railroads in 21 states run a licensed version, mostly from early November to late December.
Each railroad sets its own dates, prices, and rules. This page lists every ride we could confirm on the railroad's own site, with what families need to know before booking.
Pick your state
Tips for riding with little kids
- Book early. Several rides were already sold out by late October.
- Kids wear pajamas, but bring warm layers. Some waiting areas are outdoors and cold.
- Check the lap rule before you buy. Most rides let kids under 2 ride free on a lap, but some need a ticket for every child.
- On most rides, Santa visits every car, so you don't need first class to see him.
- Use the bathroom before you board. Some trains have none on board.
- The train whistle is loud. Ear protection helps kids who don't like loud noises.
Every Polar Express ride for 2026
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Williams, AZ
Grand Canyon Railway
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Jan 3 · Select nights, Nov 6-Jan 3, at 5:30 and 7:30 pm (Arizona time)
- Depot
- Williams Depot, behind the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
- Price
- Adults (16+) $64.99-$84.99, kids 2-15 $49.99-$69.99 by date, plus tax; hotel packages sold too
- Length
- About 90 minutes round trip
- Included
- Hot chocolate and cookies, the story, and a stop to see Santa and his reindeer at the North Pole
A night train leaves Williams for a pretend North Pole and comes back in about 90 minutes. Kids hear the story, get cocoa and a cookie, and see Santa. The train does not go to the Grand Canyon.
Booking: Train-only riders should arrive about 90 minutes early. Strollers can be parked outside the depot, since the train has little room for them. Not every car is wheelchair accessible.
Parent tip: Holiday-rate nights cost $20 more per adult than value nights. Most early and mid-November dates are value nights.
Jamestown, CA
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 20 · Fridays to Sundays, Nov 27-Dec 20, at 4:30, 6:00 and 7:30 pm
- Depot
- Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
- Price
- $85 per person in coach, fees included
- Length
- About 1 hour
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on an adult's lap (no ticket needed)
- Included
- Train ride, hot chocolate and a treat, park entry to pick up your Golden Ticket, and a visit with Santa in the Roundhouse
A one-hour weekend ride at a state historic rail park. After the ride, kids meet Santa in the old Roundhouse. Pajamas are welcome.
Booking: Arrive at least 1 hour early to park. Strollers go in the stroller parking area in the Ticket Office. No restrooms on the train. No refunds or exchanges.
Parent tip: There are no bathrooms on board. Take little ones to the restrooms on the depot deck before you line up.
Perris, CA
Southern California Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 11 - Dec 31 · Select days, Nov 11-Dec 31; afternoon and evening rides
- Depot
- Southern California Railway Museum, 2201 South A St
- Price
- Adults $56.25-$88.25, kids 2-11 $49.25-$81.25 by date, fees included; parking $6 per car
- Length
- Train show about 1 hour; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket at checkout and add the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a shortbread cookie, a reading of the book, Santa with the first gift of Christmas, and caroling on the way back
A one-hour ride at a large rail museum in Riverside County, with the book read on board and Santa handing out bells. Plan on about 2 hours from parking to the end.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime to park and check in. The box office closes at showtime and no one boards after that. The platform is not heated. Sensory-friendly rides Nov 24 at 4 and 6 pm.
Parent tip: Value-price rides run mostly on weeknights in mid-November. They cost $32 less per adult than premium nights.
Sacramento, CA
California State Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 21 · Select November days, then Wednesdays to Mondays after Thanksgiving, Nov 13-Dec 21; 3:30, 5:00, 6:30 and 8:00 pm
- Depot
- Central Pacific Passenger Station, 930 Front St, Old Sacramento
- Price
- Coach $80-$85, First Class $100-$110 per person; table cars $320-$440 for four; fees included
- Length
- About 1 hour on the train
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on an adult's lap (no ticket needed)
- Included
- Train ride, entry to the passenger station pre-show, and entry to the Eagle Theater to meet Santa
A one-hour ride from Old Sacramento with a short show in the station before you board. After the ride, families meet Santa at a nearby theater.
Booking: Arrive at least 1 hour early. The pre-boarding show starts 35 minutes before departure. Strollers and baby carriers are not allowed on the train; they are watched in the station. Missed trains can't be rebooked.
Parent tip: The station is covered but not heated. Put a warm layer over the pajamas for the wait.
Durango, CO
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 2 · Most nights, Nov 20-Jan 2 (none on Thanksgiving, Christmas or a few early-December weeknights); 4:55, 6:30 and 8:00 pm, some 9:10 pm
- Depot
- Durango Depot, 479 Main Ave
- Price
- Coach from $42.12 adult, $31.32 child (2-11); Deluxe and First Class cost more, up to $100.44
- Length
- About 65 minutes; allow 2 hours in all
- Included
- Hot cocoa and a cookie, a reading of the book, and Santa handing out the first gift of Christmas on the way back; Deluxe and First Class add a souvenir mug and tote
A 65-minute narrow gauge ride out of downtown Durango. Staff sing and dance in the aisles, and Santa gives each rider a gift on the way back.
Booking: Tickets are sold online ahead of time. Cars are heated, but the North Pole air is cold, so dress in layers.
Parent tip: Value nights fall mostly in late November, on a few early-December weeknights and on Dec 28-29. Peak nights near Christmas cost about $25 more per adult in coach.
Golden, CO
Colorado Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 23 · Select November evenings, then nightly Nov 27-Dec 23; shows at 5:00, 6:30 and 8:00 pm
- Depot
- Colorado Railroad Museum, 17155 W. 44th Ave
- Price
- Standard $80 (ages 2-15), $100 (16+); First Class $475-$505 per table of four; 10% off before Thanksgiving
- Length
- About 2 to 2½ hours in all, including the pre-show and Santa
- Lap children
- Under 2 free as a lap rider; lap riders don't get their own seat
- Included
- Hot cocoa, a cookie and a silver bell; a live retelling of the story in the pavilion; Santa hands out the first gift of Christmas and offers a visit after the ride
The evening starts with a short live show in a heated pavilion, then a steam train ride to the North Pole. Kids get cocoa, a cookie and a bell, and can see Santa after.
Booking: Arrive 30-45 minutes before showtime, but not more than 1 hour early. Free parking on site. Tickets have sold out ahead every year since 2020.
Parent tip: Pick a show before Thanksgiving to save 10% and to have a better chance at tickets.
Monticello, IL
Monticello Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 6 · Fridays to Sundays, Nov 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 and Dec 4-6, at 5:00, 6:30 and 8:00 pm (no 8:00 pm train on Sundays)
- Depot
- Wabash Depot, 200 E. Livingston St., downtown Monticello (not the museum grounds)
- Price
- Coach $48, Special Coach $60 (ages 2 and up); Deluxe $340 per table of 4; private cars cost more. Sold out for 2026
- Length
- About 1 hour round trip
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride on an adult's lap or with their own ticket
- Included
- Story read-along, hot chocolate and a treat, caroling, and Santa with a sleigh bell for each child on the way back. Special Coach adds a mug
A one-hour round trip from the old Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello. Kids follow the story, drink cocoa, sing carols and get a bell from Santa on the ride back.
Booking: Tickets are ready at the depot from 3:30 pm on your day. Arrive at least 30 minutes early. All seats are assigned. Email the museum with ticket questions instead of calling.
Parent tip: All 2026 tickets are already sold out. Sales for the next season usually open on a summer weekend, so watch the museum's site.
French Lick, IN
French Lick Scenic Railway
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 23 · Select dates, Nov 6-Dec 23, with shows at 12:30, 2:30, 5:30 or 7:30 pm
- Depot
- French Lick depot, 8594 West State Road 56
- Price
- $47-$117 by date (value, moderate and peak nights)
- Length
- About 65 minutes
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free (the railroad's general rule; confirm when you book)
- Included
- Ticket punch, hot chocolate and cookies, the story read aloud, Santa giving each guest a silver sleigh bell, and carols on the way back
A 65-minute ride from the French Lick depot to the North Pole and back. Chefs serve cocoa and cookies, Santa hands out bells, and elves lead songs on the return trip.
Booking: Buy tickets ahead; there are no walk-ups. The depot opens at least 2 hours before the train. Boarding starts about 15 minutes before, and the train does not wait. The show uses flashing lights.
Parent tip: Most 2026 shows were sold out by late October. Check the calendar for single open seats, and look at Sunday evening and early November dates first.
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
- Dates
- Dec 11-31 · Daily Dec 11-31 except Christmas; rides from 10 am to 6:40 pm
- Depot
- Union Passenger Terminal, 1001 Loyola Ave
- Price
- Adults $78-$99.25, kids 2-11 $69.50-$90.50 by date, fees included
- Length
- About 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket at checkout and add the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a shortbread cookie, a reading of the book, Santa with the first gift of Christmas, and caroling on the way back
A December-only ride from the city's main train station, with morning and afternoon times that work for nap schedules. The book is read on board and Santa hands out bells.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime. The box office closes at showtime. Find your own parking near the station. Sensory-friendly ride Dec 18 at 10 am.
Parent tip: Morning rides suit babies and toddlers best. Value-price times are mostly late-morning and early-afternoon rides, Dec 14-18 and Dec 28-31.
Buzzards Bay, MA
Cape Cod Central Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 23 · Select dates, Nov 20-Dec 23, with daytime matinee and evening trains
- Depot
- Buzzards Bay station, 70 Main Street (not Hyannis)
- Price
- Standard Class $69 child / $79 adult in the evening, $54 / $64 for matinees; lower on opening weekend (Nov 20-22); First Class from $89 / $99; table classes sold by the whole table
- Length
- About 1.5 hours round trip
- Lap children
- Lap babies need a $10 Babe-in-Arms ticket, one per paying adult
- Included
- Hot chocolate, shortbread cookies, a sleigh bell, a souvenir golden ticket and a visit from Santa, who greets each child on the way back. Some classes add a mug or tumbler
A 1.5-hour round trip from Buzzards Bay. Riders get cocoa and cookies, hear the story, and meet Santa, who hands each child a keepsake on the ride home.
Booking: Arrive 45-60 minutes early. Boarding starts 30 minutes before, and the train cannot wait for late riders. All sales are final.
Parent tip: Matinee trips run in daylight and cost less, which can suit toddlers who go to bed early.
Baltimore, MD
National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation (formerly B&O Railroad Museum)
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 22 · Nov 28-29, Dec 5-6, 12-13 and 19-22, with entry times from 2:30 pm
- Depot
- North Car Shop entrance off Arlington Street, 901 W. Pratt St.
- Price
- Bronze $50-$60 child, $60-$70 adult; Silver $80-$95; Gold $105-$125 (prices rise closer to Christmas)
- Length
- About 2 hours for the whole event
- Lap children
- Under 2 can come as lap infants; pick the lap-infant option when you buy
- Included
- Hot cocoa and a sugar cookie, a silver sleigh bell from Santa for each guest, and Santa photos. Gold adds a mug per ticket
A two-hour event at Baltimore's railroad museum. Families ride to the North Pole, drink cocoa, get a bell from Santa and can take photos with him.
Booking: The time on your ticket is when doors open, so arrive then. Free event parking is at 1100 James Street. Strollers are not allowed past the entrance; check them at the door and collect them after the ride.
Parent tip: The museum now goes by a new name, so look for National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation when you book.
Cumberland, MD
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 24 · Select dates, Nov 20-Dec 24
- Depot
- Cumberland Depot, 13 Canal Street
- Price
- Coach $40, First Class $90, tables $153 (2 seats) or $305 (4 seats), plus a $5 heritage fee per ticket
- Length
- About 1 hour
- Lap children
- Ages 2 and under ride free on an adult's lap
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a sugar cookie and a silver sleigh bell for every rider. First Class adds a mug; table and First Class add an ornament
A one-hour ride from the Cumberland depot. Everyone gets cocoa, a cookie and a silver bell, and pajamas are welcome.
Booking: Arrive 40-45 minutes early to park, pick up tickets and board. Kids with allergies can bring their own cocoa and cookies.
Parent tip: Coach is the cheapest seat at $40 and still comes with cocoa, a cookie and a bell. Allow extra time on I-68 if snow is in the forecast.
Portland, ME
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 28 · Nov 20-22 and 27-29; Dec 4-6, 11-13, 17-23 and 26-28; no trains Dec 24-25
- Depot
- Ocean Gateway Marine Terminal, 65 Thames Street
- Price
- Coach $35-$40, First Class $65-$70, Presidential $105-$110 a person
- Length
- About 50 minutes
- Lap children
- Kids 2 and under on a lap ride for $5 in any class; book their ticket ahead
- Included
- Hot chocolate (lactose-free on request) and a snickerdoodle, plus a silver sleigh bell from Santa for each child. First and Presidential add a mug
A small narrow-gauge train leaves the Ocean Gateway terminal for a ride of about 50 minutes. Kids get cocoa, a cookie and a bell, and Santa stops by.
Booking: Arrive 30 minutes early and board at least 20 minutes before departure. Trains leave on time, and late riders are not refunded. Santa greets riders but does not pose for single photos.
Parent tip: Coach is $35 on most dates, and a lap baby is only $5. Premium departures cost $5 more in every class.
Branson, MO
Branson Scenic Railway
- Dates
- Nov 12 - Jan 2 · Select dates, Nov 12-Jan 2
- Depot
- Branson depot, 206 E Main St
- Price
- Deluxe Coach from $51 adult, $39 child (2-11), plus tax; First Class and dome cars cost more
- Length
- About 1 hour 15 minutes on the train; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Lap infants 23 months and under are $8
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a treat, a reading of the book, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa; First Class adds a mug
A 75-minute ride from downtown Branson with the book read aloud and Santa on board. It's a good add-on to a Branson holiday trip.
Booking: Arrive about 40 minutes before showtime to park and check in. The platform is not heated. Parking by the depot is limited, but you can drop off at the door.
Parent tip: Make sure you book the Polar Express ride and not the regular daytime train.
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis Union Station
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 30 · Evenings, Nov 13-Dec 30; 4:30, 6:00, 7:15 and 8:30 pm
- Depot
- St. Louis Union Station, 201 S. 18th St
- Price
- Holiday Saver from $19.99; Coach from $35; First Class from $45 (sets of 4); premium cars from $100
- Length
- About 45 minutes on the train
- Lap children
- Children 2 and under ride free on a lap (no ticket needed)
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a cookie, a reading of the book, and a visit from Santa on board
One of the shortest rides, at about 45 minutes, which suits toddlers. It leaves from the historic train station downtown and has the lowest starting price in the West.
Booking: Doors open 1 hour before the ride. Train doors close 10 minutes before departure, and late guests can't board. Strollers stay in a secure area at the entrance. Parking $5.
Parent tip: Get there when doors open. Train doors close 10 minutes before departure and late families can't get on.
Bryson City, NC
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Jan 3 · Most days, Nov 6, 2026-Jan 3, 2027
- Depot
- Bryson City Depot (parking across the street at 45 Mitchell Street)
- Price
- Coach from $50.85 adult, $33.52 child (2-12), infants $0; Crown from $57.50; First Class from $71.94 a seat; peak, steam and Christmas Eve trains cost more
- Length
- About 75 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Under 2 free. Table and section classes allow one lap child per adult ticket; Coach lists a $0 infant ticket
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a cookie in every class (higher classes add a tumbler or mug and treats), and a silver bell from Santa for each child
A 75-minute round trip from Bryson City in the Smoky Mountains. Chefs serve cocoa and treats, and on the way back Santa walks through every car with a bell for each child.
Booking: Arrive 1 hour early to pick up tickets. Pajamas are fine, but closed-toe shoes are required.
Parent tip: This ride runs into early January, so it can work for a trip after Christmas.
Spencer, NC
North Carolina Transportation Museum
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 23 · Nov 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29, Dec 4-6, then daily Dec 10-23
- Depot
- N.C. Transportation Museum, 1 Samuel Spencer Drive
- Price
- See the official site (Standard, Deluxe, First and Parlor classes)
- Lap children
- One free lap infant under 2 per paying adult; everyone 2 and up needs a ticket and seat
- Included
- Cocoa, a cookie, a silver sleigh bell and a golden ticket in every class. Deluxe, First and Parlor add a cup or mug and a treat
The state transportation museum near Salisbury runs two Polar Express trains. Every rider gets cocoa, a cookie, a golden ticket and a sleigh bell.
Booking: Two trains run, Train A and Train B. Parlor class is on Train A only.
Parent tip: Pick your train by departure time first, then by class, since Parlor seats are only on Train A.
Phillipsburg, NJ
Delaware River Railroad Excursions
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 20 · Fri-Sun: Nov 27-29, Dec 4-6, Dec 11-13, Dec 18-20, departures 2pm to 8pm
- Depot
- Lehigh Junction station, 38 Market St
- Price
- About $48 adults, $38 kids (subject to change)
- Length
- About 90 minutes round trip
- Included
- Hot chocolate, a cookie, and a visit from Santa on board
A 90-minute round-trip ride based on the picture book. Kids get hot chocolate, a cookie, and a visit from Santa.
Booking: Buy tickets ahead for a set departure. Tickets are sold through the railroad's ticket seller.
Parent tip: Afternoon weekend trains are easier for toddlers. Pajamas are part of the fun.
Whippany, NJ
Morristown & Erie Railway
- Dates
- Nov 1 - Dec 30 · Most days, Nov 1-Dec 30, priced as value, standard or premium dates
- Depot
- Whippany Station, 1 Railroad Plaza
- Price
- Coach $67-$91 adult, $59-$82 child (2-11); First Class $98-$109 adult, $90-$101 child; fees included. Parking $12 a car
- Length
- About 2 hours in all, with a 1-hour show on board
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket and give the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and shortbread, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa. Babies under 2 get a bell but no treat
A two-hour event in north New Jersey, with a one-hour show on the train. Riders get cocoa and shortbread, and Santa gives out bells.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime. The box office closes at showtime, and no one boards after that. The platform is not heated. A sensory-friendly train runs Dec 1.
Parent tip: November and weekday dates cost less and have more seats. Coats over pajamas help on the cold platform.
Carson City, NV
Virginia & Truckee Railway
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 23 · Thursdays to Sundays, Nov 13-Dec 20, plus Dec 21-23
- Depot
- Eastgate Depot, 4650 Eastgate Siding Rd
- Price
- Classic Coach $60-$80 per 2-person bench, plus fees
- Length
- About 1 hour round trip
- Lap children
- Under 24 months rides free on a lap
- Included
- Hot cocoa and a cookie, carols, a live telling of the story, Santa in every car, and a silver bell for each child
A one-hour diesel train ride from east Carson City, with a live show in each car. Santa walks through every car and each child gets a bell.
Booking: Arrive 45 minutes early. Strollers, wheelchairs and large diaper bags stay at the depot. Seats are sold as 2-person benches only. No refunds.
Parent tip: Seats are sold by the bench, so a parent and one child fill one bench. Leave the stroller in the car.
Kingston, NY
Catskill Mountain Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 30 · Select dates, Nov 13-Dec 30, with peak and off-peak trains
- Depot
- Westbrook Lane Station, 55 Kingston Plaza Road
- Price
- Adults $48 off-peak, $58 peak; kids $38 off-peak, $48 peak
- Length
- About 70 minutes on the train; about 1.5 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket and give the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs, Santa and his elves boarding at the North Pole, and a silver sleigh bell for each guest
A ride of just over an hour from Kingston in the Hudson Valley. Chefs serve cocoa and cookies, and Santa boards to hand every rider a bell.
Booking: Arrive about 45 minutes early to park and check in. Boarding starts about 20 minutes before, and trains leave on time. The platform is not heated.
Parent tip: Off-peak trains cost $10 less per person. The cocoa has dairy, so bring your own drink if your child needs one.
Medina, NY
Medina Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 27 · Select dates, Nov 21-Dec 27
- Depot
- Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Avenue (free parking at 698 Gwinn St.)
- Price
- Coach from $49, First Class from $65, plus fees
- Length
- About 1 to 1.25 hours
- Lap children
- Lap infants under 2 ride free
- Included
- Hot chocolate, an iced sugar cookie and a silver sleigh bell from Santa. First Class adds table seats, a mug and more time with Santa
A ride of about an hour from the Medina Railroad Museum, between Buffalo and Rochester. Santa boards, greets each child and hands out bells.
Booking: Arrive 1 hour early to pick up tickets at will call. Closed-toe shoes are required. The old cars cannot take wheelchairs.
Parent tip: Lake-effect snow is common here, so leave extra driving time.
Utica, NY
Adirondack Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 20 · Select dates, Nov 20-Dec 20. Trains at 2:00, 5:00 and 7:30 pm (2:00 pm on select December weekends only)
- Depot
- Utica Union Station, 321 Main Street
- Price
- Coach $47 adult, $39 child (2-12); First Class $68 adult, $58 child
- Length
- 1 to 1.5 hours on the train; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free on a lap unless you buy them a seat
- Included
- Hot chocolate and sugar cookies, the story and carols, and Santa visiting each family with a silver bell for every rider. First Class adds a table and a mug
A ride of about an hour from Utica's Union Station, with a short opening show first. Santa visits every family, and each rider gets a silver bell.
Booking: Arrive about 1 hour early; bags are checked before boarding. Tables and coach sections seat 4, so smaller groups may share.
Parent tip: Buy all 4 seats in a section if you want your family to sit alone.
Dennison, OH
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum
- Dates
- Dec 3-13 · Dec 3-6 and 10-13; 6 and 8 pm on Thursdays and Fridays, 2, 4, 6 and 8 pm on weekends
- Depot
- Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St.
- Price
- Coach $55-$65, Deluxe $66-$74, First Class $75-$85, plus a $4 fee per ticket; private compartment for 6 is $595
- Lap children
- Everyone 1 year and up needs a ticket and seat. A baby carrier on a seat needs its own ticket
- Included
- Hot chocolate and cookies, the book read aloud, songs and games with elves, and a jingle bell from Santa for each child. Deluxe and First Class kids get an engineer cap and whistle
Ohio's licensed ride runs for just two weeks in December from a historic depot. Storytellers read the book, elves lead games, and Santa boards with bells.
Booking: Arrive 1 hour early. Boarding starts 30 minutes before, and gates close 5 minutes before. Strollers go to stroller parking, not on the train. Skip open-toe shoes and slippers.
Parent tip: Babies over 1 need their own seat here, which is stricter than most rides. The 8 pm Thursday and Sunday trains are the cheapest.
Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 31 · Select days, Nov 20-Dec 31; 11:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Depot
- Oklahoma Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand Blvd
- Price
- Coach $62-$76 adult, $54-$68 child (2-11); First Class $79-$92 adult; fees and taxes included; parking $6
- Length
- Train show about 1 hour; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket at checkout and add the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a shortbread cookie, a reading of the book, and Santa with the first gift of Christmas
A one-hour ride at a rail museum in northeast Oklahoma City. The story happens on the train; there is no village to walk through.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime to park and check in. The box office closes at showtime. The platform is not heated. Sensory-friendly ride Dec 13 at 1:30 pm.
Parent tip: The cheapest value-price rides are in the week before Thanksgiving.
Hood River, OR
Mount Hood Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 2 · Select days, Nov 20-Jan 2
- Depot
- Hood River depot, 110 Railroad Ave
- Price
- Adults $59-$109, kids 2-12 $49-$99, by day and seat type (Standard, Parlor, Premium, VIP)
- Length
- About 90 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Infants 0-2 ride on a paying adult's lap for $10; every rider needs a ticket
- Included
- Cocoa and cookies on board and a silver bell for each child; VIP adds a ceramic mug, Premium a tumbler
A 90-minute ride from Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge, east of Portland. Every seat type gets the same show.
Booking: Arrive 45-60 minutes early. Park at the overflow lot at 113 Portway Ave and take the shuttle to the depot. Will Call opens 1 hour before the first train. The platform is not heated.
Parent tip: The show is the same on every date, so value days save money with no trade-off.
Galveston, TX
Galveston Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 23 · Select days, Nov 13-Dec 23
- Depot
- Historic 1932 Union Depot, 2602 Santa Fe Place
- Price
- See the official site
- Length
- About 1 hour on the train; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Every child needs a ticket: a lap ticket or a full seat
- Included
- Round-trip ride, hot chocolate and a cookie, and a silver bell for each rider from Santa or an elf
A one-hour ride from the 1932 Union Depot. Pajamas are encouraged, and every rider gets a bell.
Booking: Strollers and baby carriers are not allowed on board. Final boarding is 10 minutes before departure. Sensory-friendly rides Dec 15 at 5:30 and 7:15 pm.
Parent tip: Even a lap baby needs a lap ticket here. Plan to carry little ones, since strollers stay off the train.
Palestine, TX
Texas State Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 28 · Select days, Nov 13-Dec 28; rides between 3:00 and 7:30 pm
- Depot
- Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70
- Price
- Coach from $40 adult, $20 child (2-12) on value nights; up to $115 in Presidential cars; plus $3 fee per ticket
- Length
- About 60 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Adult-with-lap-child ticket (under 2) costs $10 more than an adult ticket
- Included
- Train ride, hot chocolate and cookies; First Class and up add a keepsake mug (coach does not)
A one-hour diesel train ride in East Texas. It has many seat types, from basic coach to glass-domed cars.
Booking: Check in at least 45 minutes early at the ticket window. Boarding passes must be picked up 15 minutes before departure. The platform closes 10 minutes before departure.
Parent tip: Coach on value nights is $40 per adult and $20 per child. Upgrade to First Class only if you want the mug.
Burlington, VT
Vermont Children's Trust Foundation
- Dates
- Dec 5-6 · Dec 5 and 6 only
- Depot
- Wing Building lobby, bottom of King Street, just south of Union Station
- Price
- $40 a person, up to 5 per order
- Length
- About 20 minutes on the train; about 1 hour 15 minutes in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 on a lap do not need a ticket
- Included
- Hot cocoa and cookies from chefs, the story at Union Station, and a bell from Santa for each child
A short charity train along the Burlington waterfront for two days only. Kids drink cocoa, hear the story and get a bell from Santa.
Booking: Most tickets go to donors, sponsors and a random draw from a wait list. Kids with food allergies should bring their own cocoa and cookies. Walk back to your car on Battery Street.
Parent tip: Join the wait list early. Bring a warm coat over pajamas, because the waterfront is windy in December.
White River Junction, VT
Rotary Club of White River
- Dates
- Dec 12-13 · Sat Dec 12, trains 10:00 am-7:00 pm; Sun Dec 13, trains 10:00 am-5:30 pm
- Depot
- White River Junction (the boarding station is not named on the official site)
- Price
- $45 regular seat, $50 seat with a table, plus a handling fee; up to 8 per order
- Length
- About 45 minutes on the train; plan about 1.5 hours in all
- Lap children
- Kids 1 and under ride free on a lap
- Included
- Hot chocolate in a covered cup, a sugar cookie and a bell for each child; Santa boards at the North Pole
A Rotary Club train runs for one weekend in White River Junction. Kids get cocoa, a cookie and a bell, and Santa climbs aboard at the North Pole.
Booking: Strollers are not allowed on the train; leave them at the station. There are no bathrooms on board. Pick up tickets at your boarding time.
Parent tip: Use the station bathroom before you board. Wear boots and warm layers over pajamas.
Chehalis, WA
Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum
- Dates
- Nov 14 - Dec 20 · Weekends Nov 14-Dec 20, plus Fridays Dec 4, 11 and 18; 2:00, 4:30 and 7:00 pm (no 2 pm on Fridays)
- Depot
- Chehalis depot, 1101 SW Sylvenus St
- Price
- Coach $69 per person; First Class sold out
- Length
- About 75 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Children 2 and under are free on an adult's lap
- Included
- Cocoa, a cookie and a sleigh bell; you keep the golden ticket; First Class adds a souvenir mug
A 75-minute ride in 1920s-style cars through the Chehalis River Valley. A diesel engine pulls the train while the steam engine is being fixed.
Booking: Arrive 30 minutes early to get your boarding pass. Strollers and infant car seats must stay at the depot. Online sales only, all sales final. Not wheelchair accessible.
Parent tip: The old cars have little heat. Bring a blanket and warm pajamas.
Green Bay, WI
National Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 13 · Fridays to Sundays, Nov 20-Dec 13
- Depot
- Museum depot, 2285 South Broadway (across the parking lot from the Lenfestey Center)
- Price
- $35-$75 a seat by car (Northern Lights coach $35 up to table and lounge seats $70-$75). Sold out for 2026
- Length
- About 105 minutes: a 30-minute pre-show, then 75 minutes for the ride and Santa
- Lap children
- Everyone needs a ticket, including lap babies
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a sugar cookie, and Santa on the train. Northern Lights and Glacier Gulch riders can see Santa again in the depot after
A pre-show at the museum, then a 75-minute train ride and visit with Santa. Pajamas are welcome for kids and adults.
Booking: Arrive 30-40 minutes before showtime, not earlier; doors open 30 minutes before. Glacier Gulch is the only wheelchair-accessible car. There are no restrooms on the train.
Parent tip: All 2026 shows are sold out and the museum will not add more. Buy only from the museum, since resold tickets are not honored.
Dates and prices were checked on each railroad's official site. Rides often sell out, and details can change, so check the official site before you go. THE POLAR EXPRESS is a trademark of Warner Bros.; rides are run by individual railroads under license.
Questions parents ask
What happens on the Polar Express train ride?
The book is read or acted out, and kids get hot chocolate and a cookie. Santa comes on board, and on most rides every child gets a silver sleigh bell. Details vary by railroad.
How long is the Polar Express train ride?
Most rides last about 45 minutes to an hour and a half on the train. Some railroads add a pre-show or a station visit, so the whole outing can take about two hours. Check each ride's length in the list.
Do babies need a ticket for the Polar Express?
It depends on the railroad. Many let kids under 2 ride free on an adult's lap. Others charge a small lap fee or need a ticket for every child. Each ride in the list shows its rule.
Is first class worth it on the Polar Express?
First class often adds a table and extra treats, which makes cocoa and coats easier to manage. But coach gets the same story, treats, and Santa visit on most rides.
Where is the Polar Express train ride?
For 2026, there are 32 licensed rides in 21 states. Use the state filter or pick your state above to find the closest one.
Planning more holiday fun? See Christmas events for families by city.